Endocrinology

Endocrinology is the branch of medicine that studies the endocrine system, placing particular emphasis on diseases of the glands responsible for the internal secretion and transfer to the blood of the hormones that govern bodily functions.

Amongst the various components of the endocrine system, the thyroid has been extensively studied on account of its multiple functions: as a matter of fact, this gland influences heart rate, cholesterol levels, body weight, energy levels, muscle strength, skin condition, sight, menstrual regularity, mental state and many other functions on which the physiological wellness of our organism depends.

By influencing cell processes, thyroid hormones help control the way in which the body uses energy and cell, tissue and organ functions. An under-active or “hypoactive” thyroid can cause a number of health problems, including obesity, joint pain, infertility, heart disease and depression. Thyroid disorders are grossly under-diagnosed and under-treated, especially in developing countries.

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common chronic disorders worldwide. It affects up to 2% of the global population and as much as 4-6% of the Western population, calling for the need for thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The recently-published American Thyroid Association guidelines identify levothyroxine as the most commonly prescribed therapeutic option for the treatment of hypothyroidism.

IBSA has developed innovative liquid and soft capsule formulations of hormones and supplements for the treatment of hypothyroidism.